BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – HOST Leeward Islands have put powerhouse Guyana to the sword on the opening day of the Regional U-19 Cricket Competition played at the Verchild’s Playfield.
Winning the toss and opting to take strike, in beautiful conditions, Guyana were struggling at 204 for 9 (up to press time), with Ramon Perez top scoring with 48 runs.
His innings comprised four boundaries and three sixes, and he gained support from Kevin St. Clair, who added 20 in a 43-run partnership.
They were bolstered by a 50-run partnership between Richie Looknauth (32) and Ramnarine Chateur (14).
Zawandi White was the leading bowler for the Leeward Islands, picking up 3 for 43 from 24 overs, while gaining assistance from Kian Pemberton (2 for 30) and Elroy Francis (2 for 39).
Guyana’s coach, Julian Moore told reporters that it was a mixed day for his unit with them struggling at 176 for 7, adding that they lost three more wickets than they wanted.
“Nevertheless, we had a good partnership from the guys and we are looking to push on to probably 250 or so,” he said.
Moore stated that this competition means a lot to Guyana, in that they have won the One-Day Competition for the past three years, so they want to continue to perform well.
“Apart from that, this is the final level of competition before the guys move on to First Class and eventually plays for the West Indies. So we see this as an integral part of our players development.”
Leeward Islands coach, Winston Benjamin said he thought his team allowed the Guyanese to get away after lunch, but they would be looking to pressure the visitors after tea.
He explained that his expectation for the team is for the youngster to go out and play “decently”, noting that the team was under prepared heading into the tournament.
“My expectations are not too high at this moment,” he said.
Meanwhile, over at the St. Paul’s Playfield, Barbados were 182 for 9 against Jamaica, while at Conaree Trinidad and Tobago were bowled out for 233.
In reply, Windward Islands were 45 without loss after 10 overs.
Play continues tomorrow at the same venues.
